Trade Secrets

In June 2006 I took a call center job that I thought would be just like all the rest: take some calls, placate some customers, sell people some things that they probably could do without. You know, the usual. But one week in, it became clear -- there was nothing usual about working in a call center of a major...
Continue Reading

Of the many questions asked of me in my more than 25 years as a funeral director, there is one that is asked most: Why are funerals so expensive?
According to the National Funeral Directors Association's web site, the national median cost for a traditional funeral in 2009 was $6,560. This figure does not...
Continue Reading

The typical department store opens at 10am. A few customers are already outside with sales fliers in hand or an armload of items to return. The phone is ringing off the hook while the red light on the phone console flashes to indicate a flurry of customers who want someone to call them back–today, of...
Continue Reading

Ian knows his way around under the hood of a car. He's been a mechanic since he was a teenager and became certified by the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence 20 years ago. Here's what he has to say about those hefty bills you always get from your mechanic, and how to keep your car revving...
Continue Reading

I have worked at a cosmetics counter at Macy's for four years and I have some secrets to share! Use them to be a more savvy shopper on your next trip to the department store.
1. Be wary of the make-up brushes.
Yes, we are supposed to wash and sanitize the make-up brushes daily, but more often than not we don't....
Continue Reading

Insider tips for a successful restaurant meal from someone who really knows-your waitress.
1. Avoid slow times as well as busy ones.
Most diners know that during busy times, like lunchtime, holidays or Saturday nights service can be less than attentive. The very slow times, like Monday nights, snowy days and...
Continue Reading